Homeland Security, Trillion Trees, Sexual Assault, Pebble Mine, Veterans, SNAP, Innovation, Public Lands, Roger Stone, D.C. Statehood, AI, Rice

Today's News for the Week Prior and Up to February 17, 2020

CHAIRMAN THOMPSON: TRUMP AGAIN USING HOMELAND SECURITY TO SCORE POLITICAL POINTS, INFLICT REVENGE AS HE SENDS BORDER PATROL TO MAJOR U.S. CITIES
Source: House Committee on Homeland Security
February 14, 2020
"It is truly alarming that President Trump is moving resources away from the border just to ratchet up his cruel immigration agenda, throw meat to his base, and inflict revenge on states that don't do what he says. Doing so undermines our homeland security and will only help drug smugglers and those that seek to do us harm. The President is again using the Department of Homeland Security to score political points to help him win reelection. He must be stopped."
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Nat. Resources Committee Holding Feb. 26 Hearing on Chair Grijalva’s Public Lands and Waters Climate Change Bill, Rep. Westerman’s “Trillion Trees Act
Source: House Committee on Natural Resources
February 14, 2020
The Natural Resources Committee will hold a hearing on Feb. 26 at 10:00 a.m. in Longworth 1324 on two bills introduced by Committee members designed to address climate change.
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All Democratic Committee Members Object to DeVos’ Proposed Rule Harming Student Survivors of Sexual Assault
Source: House Committee on Oversight and Governmental Reform
February 14, 2020
Rep. Carolyn B. Maloney, the Chairwoman of the Committee on Oversight and Reform, led all Democratic Members of the Committee in a letter to Education Secretary Betsy DeVos requesting information about a proposed rule that would encourage schools to pursue fewer investigations of sexual harassment and assault. The Department is poised to finalize the rule soon.
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Chair DeFazio Responds to Army Corps Environmental Impact Statement on Pebble Mine
Source: House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure
February 13, 2020
“The Army Corps of Engineers’ environmental analysis of the Pebble Mine was flawed from the start, and recent reports indicate it isn’t improving. When the Chief of the Corps told me the Corps was taking its statutory responsibilities seriously and it was better to do the job right than do it fast, I took him at his word. However if recent reports about the current state of review of this project are true, it appears the Corps has, again, missed the mark,” said Chair DeFazio. “If the Pebble Mine is built- the world’s largest wild sockeye salmon run will be placed in jeopardy and likely destroyed, as well as the culture and livelihood of the tribes, fisher people, and communities that depend on this abundant resource. As Chairman of the Committee responsible for the Corps and the Clean Water Act, I will do everything in my authority to ensure this doesn’t occur.”
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CHAIRMAN TAKANO, 77 MEMBERS CALL ON PRESIDENT TRUMP TO GRANT RELIEF TO 190,000 ILL VETERANS
Source: House Committee on Veterans Affairs
February 13, 2020
In their letter, Members call on the president to accept scientific evidence and add bladder cancer, hypothyroidism, parkinsonism, and hypertension to the Department of Veterans’ Affairs list of presumptive conditions related to Agent Orange exposure. This change would provide lifesaving benefits to more than 190,000 veterans currently in need of VA resources and healthcare.
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HUDSON HOSTS PRESS CONFERENCE ON VETERAN CAREGIVER ACT
Source: U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (R-NC, 8th)
February 13, 2020
U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-08), Fort Bragg’s Congressman and a voice for North Carolina veterans, hosted a press conference at the U.S. Capitol Building to discuss the Care for the Veteran Caregiver Act (H.R. 5701), bipartisan legislation he introduced with Rep. Kathleen Rice (NY-04) on Jan. 30. The Caregiver Act will further modernize the VA’s Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers so that veterans and their families can better access the Caregiver program. Rep. Hudson was joined by Rep. Rice, veterans, veteran caregivers, stakeholders and member organizations of the National Military & Veterans Alliance, a nonpartisan umbrella organization of 35 veteran- and military-serving organizations.
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Fudge: Trump Budget Illustrates Administration’s Cruel Priorities
Source: House Committee on Agriculture
February 12, 2020
“Going to such lengths to gut programs like SNAP, once again, reveals the Administration’s insensitivity to the needs of the people the office is entrusted to serve,” said Chairwoman Fudge. “The proposed budget is nothing more than an assault on vulnerable Americans, particularly people in marginalized communities. Eliminating programs that ensure seniors have access to food, recipients receive nutrition education, and next generation anti-hunger advocates are trained will have devastating effects on the quality of life of countless citizens.”
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Chairman Yarmuth Opening Statement at Budget Hearing on The President's 2021 Budget
Source: House Committee on the Budget
February 12, 2020
Just six short months ago, the President signed a bipartisan two-year budget deal into law. It does everything the President’s proposal fails to do -- it set rational discretionary toplines allowing strong investments in our national and economic security; it had bipartisan support – including the Ranking Member and myself; and it set Congress up for a successful appropriations process. But now, the President is going back on his word. Instead, he is, once again, proposing deep cuts to critical programs that help American families and prepare our nation for the future. Once again, he is breaking his promises and lying to the American people.
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Crow Looks to Strengthen Innovation Pipeline Between Universities and Small Businesses
Source: House Committee on Small Business
February 12, 2020
“Products like lifesaving drugs, groundbreaking medical devices, and advancements in agriculture are the result of collaboration among faculty, students, and the business community,” said Chairman Crow. “These innovations – only made possible by public investment – are needed now more than ever as technology is rapidly changing every sector of the economy. However, as more and more states cut funding for research-based universities, the federal government’s role in supporting innovation at our nation’s colleges and universities is more important than ever.”
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Crow Looks to Strengthen Innovation Pipeline Between Universities and Small Businesses
Source: House Committee on Ways and Means
February 12, 2020
When American patients and their families receive medical care, they shouldn’t have to lie awake at night worrying about the hidden fees or unexpected bills to come. That’s why the House Committee on Ways and Means has offered its solution to end surprise medical bills once and for all.
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HUFFMAN BILL PASSES AS PART OF MULTI-STATE PUBLIC LANDS MANAGEMENT PACKAGE
Source: U.S. Representative Jared Huffman (D-CA, 2nd)
February 12, 2020
The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Protecting America’s Wilderness Act, a massive new public lands management package that would permanently protect 1.37 million acres of federal land and 1,000 river miles in three states. Representative Jared Huffman’s (D-San Rafael) bill, the Northwest California Wilderness, Recreation, and Working Forests Act was approved as part of this legislative package.
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Committee Advances Bipartisan Solution to Ban Surprise Billing
Source: House Committee on Education and the Workforce
February 11, 2020
“Surprise medical billing is a troubling and all-too-common product of our complex health care system. The status quo is unacceptable. Patients are getting hit with astronomical bills and both payers and providers are facing an uncertain future.” said Chairman Scott. “The Ban Surprise Billing Act is a bipartisan solution that protects patients from unexpected, often significant out-of-pocket costs while being fair to both providers and payers. I want to thank Dr. Foxx and all members of the Committee for working together to advance a proposal that provides patients and their families the consumer protections they deserve.”
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Chairman Schiff Statement on Roger Stone Sentencing
Source: House Committee on Intelligence
February 11, 2020
“I do not take a position on the proper prison term for Mr. Stone, but it would be a blatant abuse of power if President Trump has in fact intervened to reverse the recommendations of career prosecutors at the Department of Justice.
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Hoyer Remarks at Press Conference Ahead of DC Statehood Bill Markup and Committee Vote
Source: U.S. Representative Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD, 5th)
February 11, 2020
“I have long been a supporter of and urged that the District of Columbia’s representative have a real vote in the Congress of the United States. Now when I was Majority Leader the first time, we assured that the representative of the District of Columbia and other non-voting Members of the Congress of the United States would have a vote in what we call our Committee of the Whole. Under the Constitution however, we could not extend that fully. Unfortunately, when the Republicans took back the Majority, they eliminated that vote, [which was] an act of disrespect, not only to the residents of the District of Columbia, but towards our democracy.
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Hurd Praises Administration’s Request for Increased AI and Quantum Funding
Source: U.S. Representative Will Hurd (R-TX, 23rd)
February 11, 2020
“America must lead in artificial intelligence, quantum computing and other technologies that will define the 21st century,” said Hurd. “I applaud the Administration for recognizing the importance of AI and quantum research and will continue to work with my colleagues to prepare our nation for these challenges and ensure America remains the most important economy in the world.”
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MISS. SENATORS PROMOTE U.S.-GROWN RICE IN U.K. TRADE TALKS
Source: Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS)
February 11, 2020
The Mississippi Senators are among a group of Senators from rice-producing states who have signed a letter that encourages U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer “to take advantage of the rice demand in the U.K. to achieve increased market access for U.S.-grown rice through your upcoming negotiations.”
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Vindman, Environment, Digital Currency, HIV, War Powers, Children, ERA, Tax Credits

Today's News for the Week Prior and Up to February 14, 2020

REP. HECK ON PRESIDENT TRUMP’S RETALIATION AGAINST LT. COL. VINDMAN
Source: U.S. Representative Denny Heck (D-WA, 10th)
February 7, 2020
The President’s public humiliation of Colonel Vindman today is beyond shameful. And if there was any doubt that this was an act of petulant retaliation, Lt. Col. Yevgeny Vindman, Colonel Alexander Vindman’s twin brother and a National Security Council lawyer, was also dismissed from his position and left the White House alongside his brother. President Trump has shown that he will cruelly retaliate against honorable public servants. All evidence shows that he will continue to do so.
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Senators Hirono, Carper Introduce Bill Requiring Net-Zero U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions by 2050
Source: Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D - HI)
February 11, 2020
“The devastating consequences of climate change in Hawaii are clear, and that is why we were the first state in the country to commit to achieving a carbon neutral economy by 2045, which includes 100% renewable power. The Clean Economy Act spurs similar bold action across the country by setting a goal of achieving net-zero U.S. greenhouse gas production by 2050. The bill also requires a focus on public health, innovative and equitable access to worker training, and enhancing America’s global competitiveness, all of which will be essential to address the broad impacts of climate change,” Senator Hirono said.
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Federal Reserve Chairman: U.S. is “Working Hard” on Digital Currency
Source: U.S. Representative French Hill (R-AR, 2nd)
February 12, 2020
Libra lit a fire and it was a bit of a wakeup call that this was coming fast, and could come in a way that is quite widespread and systemically important. Federal Reserve Chairman Confirms Digital Currency Efforts
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President's Budget Increases HIV Support, But Lacks Direction And Funding In Key Areas
Source: HIV Medicine Association (HIVMA)
February 12, 2020
President Trump’s fiscal year 2021 budget plan proposes $716 million in funding for the Ending the HIV Epidemic initiative – more than double the 2020 request. At the same time, however, it reduces support for federal public health programs that are key to the initiative’s implementation, according to the HIV Medicine Association.
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Trump Stripped of War Powers
Source: Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM)
February 13, 2020
U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) issued the following statement after voting to support S.J.Res.63, a war powers resolution to prevent further escalation of hostilities with Iran without congressional authorization. The resolution passed the Senate with a bipartisan vote of 55 to 45.
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HOEVEN STATEMENT AFTER SENATE VOTE ON WAR POWERS RESOLUTIONS
Source: Senator John Hoeven (R - ND)
February 13, 2020
“I do not support this resolution because I think it undermines our nation’s maximum pressure campaign on Iran, including diplomatic, economic and military pressure. I believe it sends the wrong message to Iranian leaders that the U.S. is relieving, rather than increasing, pressure on the regime, particularly in the context of widespread anti-government protests in Iran."
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U.S. Reps Herrera Beutler, Kennedy Reintroduce Bill to Strengthen Kids’ Access to Health Care
Source: U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-WA, 3rd)
February 13, 2020
U.S. Representatives Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03) and Joe Kennedy III (MA-04) reintroduced a bipartisan bill to streamline the enrollment process for care provided to children outside of the state where they are enrolled in a Medicaid program. Cosponsored by Congressman Ben Ray Luján (NM-03), the Accelerating Kids’ Access to Care Act would create a limited pathway for pediatric providers to be screened and enrolled in another state’s Medicaid program to eliminate unnecessary delays in care.
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COMMITTEE ADVANCES BILL, COSPONSORED BY HIGGINS, TO PROTECT PATIENTS FROM SURPRISE MEDICAL BILLS
Source: U.S. Representative Brian Higgins (D-NY, 26th)
February 13, 2020
Higgins said, “Surprise medical bills for out-of-network care can be financially devastating for patients and their families. This legislation protects consumers from receiving surprise medical bills and removes the unfair mystery associated with billing, giving patients access to the information they deserve relative to the coverage they are entitled to under their plan and the costs they can expect to pay following care.”
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Rep. Horn Votes for ERA Legislation
Source: U.S. Representative Kendra Horn (D-OK, 5th)
February 13, 2020
“A vote for the ERA is a vote for equality,” said Congresswoman Horn. “The ERA enshrines in the highest law of the land the same principles that our founders fought for, that we are all created equal. Women today face continued obstacles to full equality, including unequal pay, pregnancy discrimination, domestic violence, and inadequate health care access. These are not just women’s issues, they are economic issues and family issues that impact all Oklahomans. Discrimination in the workplace and our state’s wage gap mean less money at home for food, for bills, for doctor’s visits and school supplies. Ending discrimination and affirming women’s equality under the law is the right thing to do, not just for women but for our whole country.”
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Congressman Steven Horsford Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Empower Nevada’s Workers and Businesses
Source: U.S. Representative Steven Horsford (D-NV, 4th)
February 13, 2020
On Wednesday, February 12, 2020, Congressman Steven Horsford (NV-04) introduced the Skill and Knowledge Investments Leverage Leaders’ Untapped Potential Tax Credit (SKILL UP) Act alongside Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02). The SKILL UP Act would provide businesses with a tax credit for investing in work-based learning for workers with low skill levels.
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Interesting Election

From The Ponder News Editor:

So far, Trump has 98% of the delegate vote for nomination on the Republican side of the ticket.

Buttijugs is leading on the Democrat side with only 34% of the delegate vote.

Dems are divided. How ironic...

For the last three years, Democrats have been yelling about how "divisive" Trump was. I don't think there has EVER been a candidate that garnered the support of such a high percentage of the votes on the Republican side. So, what this tells ME is that the Democrats aren't yelling about how Trump has divided the COUNTRY. They are, instead, yelling about how Trump has divided the Democrats.

It's going to get interesting, ya'll.

Impeachment, Medicaid, Medicare Advantage, Budget, Federal Trade Commission, Health Care, Space Force, Food, Roger Stone

Today's News for the Week Prior and Up to February 12, 2020

Harris Statement on Senate Acquittal of President Trump
Source: U.S. Representative Andy Harris (R-MD, 1st)
February 5, 2020
“It’s about time that this sadly partisan frivolous impeachment effort ended - and Congress can once again turn their attention to important matters facing America, like drug prices, healthcare costs, border security, and keeping our economy going. Thank goodness the Senate brought this to an end - and too bad the House proceeded along partisan lines to attempt to undo the last election and to interfere with the ability of the American people to make their choice at the polls in 10 short months. The clear majority voting against removal in the Senate today shows just how frivolous this impeachment effort was.”
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Rep. Hayes Votes To Condemn Administration Attempts To Slash Medicaid Access For Low-Income Americans
Source: U.S. Representative Jahana Hayes (D-CT, 5th)
February 7, 2020
Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) voted in favor of House Resolution 826 to disapprove of the Trump Administration’s proposed Medicaid block grant plan. This resolution is in response to the announcement last week by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, that would allow states the option to cap Medicaid spending and reduce health benefits for millions using block grants. The Administration’s plan for states to cap and slash Medicaid would push Medicaid recipients off lifesaving medicines, impose unaffordable premiums to maintain coverage and leave more vulnerable families exposed to catastrophic medical bills – with ruinous consequences for rural hospitals, families seeking opioid addiction treatment for their loved ones and seniors with long-term care need.
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Guthrie Leads Charge to Protect Medicare Advantage
Source: U.S. Representative Brett S. Guthrie (R-KY, 2nd)
February 10, 2020
The Medicare Advantage program allows select Medicare-eligible patients to choose individually tailored insurance plans operated by private companies to supplement traditional Medicare benefits. Congressman Guthrie, along with Earl Blumenauer (OR-03), Tony Cárdenas (CA-29), and Mike Kelly (PA-16) and 335 other members of the House, wrote to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to urge continued support for the Medicare Advantage program.
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Hastings’ Statement on Trump’s FY2021 Budget
Source: U.S. Representative Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL, 20th)
February 10, 2020
Once again, the President’s budget request for the coming year is nothing more than a broken promise to the American people. Instead of honoring the bipartisan budget agreement, the President has decided to pursue misguided policies that would aggravate the deficit, handout tax cuts to the wealthy, and leave working families with the bill.
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Senator Hawley Proposes to Overhaul the Federal Trade Commission
Source: Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO)
February 10, 2020
For years, Big Tech has gone unchecked due to inaction, weak enforcement, and a lack of accountability at the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Congress’s leading voice on tech accountability, is proposing to overhaul the agency by restructuring it to meet the needs of today’s digital markets.
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Harder Slams Proposed $1.6 Trillion Cut to Health Care
Source: U.S. Representative Josh Harder (D-CA, 10th)
February 11, 2020
“This budget is so absurd that I’m almost waiting for someone to yell April Fools. Literally less than a week ago the President said that he wants to protect health care at the State of the Union – but actions speak louder than words and today he put out a proposal that would cut $1.6 trillion from health care programs. This is terrible for the Valley and our families, and I’ll fight these cuts tooth and nail.”
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N.M. Delegation, Governor Urge Senior Military Officials To Utilize, Develop State’s Space Assets For U.S. Space Force
Source: U.S. Representative Debra Haaland (D-NM, 1st)
February 11, 2020
U.S. Senators Tom Udall (D-N.M.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representatives Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Deb Haaland (D-N.M.), Xochitl Torres Small (D-N.M.), along with New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, sent a letter to General John W. Raymond, the first Chief of Space Operations for the U.S. Space Force and Commander of U.S. Space Command. The letter urged General Raymond to utilize New Mexico’s existing public and private sector space capabilities as the United States Space Force develops its infrastructure and mission. The letter was also sent to Secretary of Defense Mark Esper, and Secretary of the United States Air Force Barbara Barrett.
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Hagedorn Champions Passage of Bipartisan Bill to Protect America’s Food Supply
Source: U.S. Representative Jim Hagedorn (R-MN, 1st)
February 11, 2020
Rep. Jim Hagedorn (MN-01) spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives in support of S. 2107, the “Protecting America's Food and Agriculture Act of 2019.” The bill is designed to protect America’s farms and food supply by preventing the spread of African Swine Fever (ASF) and other Foreign Agricultural Diseases (FAD) into the United States.
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Harris to Graham: Hold Immediate Hearing on Roger Stone Case and Make AG Barr Testify
Source: Senator Kamala Harris (D-CA)
February 11, 2020
U.S. Senator Kamala D. Harris (D-CA), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, on Tuesday sent a letter to Judiciary Chairman Lindsey Graham (R-SC) demanding that the committee hold a hearing—with Attorney General Bill Barr as a witness—on potential political interference in the sentencing of Roger Stone, President Trump’s former campaign advisor and longtime friend. Harris’ letter comes after reports that the Department of Justice was considering reducing the sentencing recommendation put forward by the career prosecutors overseeing Stone’s case, all four of whom have since requested to withdraw from the case, and after the Department filed an updated sentencing recommendation in the case that contradicted the career prosecutors.
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Impeachment, USPS, Privacy, Pelosi, Non-citizens, Disaster Relief, Emergency Rooms

Today's News for February 10, 2020

Graham: Cloud Over The Presidency Has Been Removed
Source: Senator Lindsey Graham (R - SC)
February 5, 2020
This partisan-driven impeachment has done injury to the office of the presidency and was an injustice to President Trump
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Griffith Statement on President Trump’s Acquittal
Source: U.S. Representative Morgan Griffith (R-VA, 9th)
February 5, 2020
The Senate has finally ended an ordeal that never should have started. Democrats in the House brushed aside principles of fairness and impartiality in conducting this impeachment process, yet, in my belief, they failed to find impeachable offenses. The Senate agreed.
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The State Of Our Union Is STRONG
Source: U.S. Representative Sam Graves (R-MO, 6th)
February 6, 2020
While the President worked throughout this sham impeachment, securing better trade deals, eliminating terrorists, and ditching bad government regulations like WOTUS, Congress was basically at a standstill. Now, with this political circus finally over, it is my hope that we can get back to work.
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Rep. Grijalva Supports Passage of USPS Fairness Act
Source: U.S. Representative Raul Grijalva (D-AZ, 3rd)
February 6, 2020
The House of Representatives, with large bipartisan support, passed the USPS Fairness Act last week. The bill will repeal the retiree health pre-funding mandate that a Republican-led Congress imposed on the Postal Service in 2006. The mandate, which no other federal agency or private company must abide by, required the postal service to pre-fund decades of future retiree benefits while still paying for current retiree benefits—costing the USPS an annual average of $5.4 billion over the past dozen years.
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Grothman Statement on the Passage of the PRO Act
Source: U.S. Representative Glenn Grothman (R-WI, 6th)
February 6, 2020
Under this bill, the employer is forced to hand over the telephone number, the email and the address of each employee to the union,” said Grothman. “I believe in the importance of protecting people’s privacy. To say that unions have the right to know every member’s home address, and turn it over to who knows how many functionaries, I find very offensive. I would find it very scary if an employee came home one night to find someone waiting there for them to talk about a union election.
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Granger Resolution to Hold Pelosi Accountable, Honor American Heroes
Source: U.S. Representative Kay Granger (R-TX, 12th)
February 7, 2020
“Speaker Ryan and Speaker Boehner - they may have disagreed with the President on a multitude of issues, but they treated him with respect. Can you imagine the outrage if they had acted this way towards President Obama? What Nancy Pelosi did was shameful, and it degraded the proceedings of the joint session. The other thing, Mark, when she tore [the President’s remarks] up, it was a slap in the face to those heroes and their families that the President had honored.”
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Grassley Seeks Information on Noncitizens Working Without Authorization
Source: Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA)
February 7, 2020
Senate Finance Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) sent a letter to Social Security Administration (SSA) Commissioner Andrew Saul and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Acting Secretary Chad Wolf seeking information on why SSA is not providing the statutorily required information to DHS regarding noncitizens working on and reporting wage earnings to non-work social security numbers.
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Congressman Al Green’s Statement on the Passage of H.R 5687, the Emergency Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Relief and Puerto Rico Disaster Tax Relief Act
Source: U.S. Representative Al Green (D-TX, 9th)
February 7, 2020
In November of 2019, the Reforming Disaster Recovery Act of 2019 (H.R. 3702) – that I and Rep. Ann Wagner (R-MO) authored – passed the House of Representatives with strong bipartisan support. H.R. 3702 helps to ensure the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) program operates more efficiently, with few unnecessary delays. As the representative of a congressional district frequently impacted by severe flooding, I understand the need for legislation that works to improve the process of providing disaster-affected areas with appropriate relief funding.
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Rep. Green Cuts Red Tape with Rural ER Access Act
Source: U.S. Representative Mark Green (R-TN, 7th)
February 7, 2020
Green’s legislation repeals an onerous and burdensome federal regulation, the ‘35-mile rule’, which prohibits free-standing emergency departments (FSEDs) from operating more than 35 miles from a hospital. The bill would abolish this arbitrary and unfair mileage requirement, allowing free-standing ERs to serve the rural communities that are desperately in need of such care.
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Guns, Democrat Lawsuit, Vindman, Coronavirus

Some News from Other Media Sources for February 8, 2020

VICTORY! Federal Court Finds California Magazine Ban Violates the Second Amendment
Source: Break the Matrix
February 3, 2020
In one of the strongest judicial statements in favor of the Second Amendment to date, Judge Roger T. Benitez of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California determined on Friday that California’s ban on commonly possessed firearm magazines violates the Second Amendment.
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In another Trump win, court tosses Democrats' suit over his businesses
Source: Reuters
February 7, 2020
A federal appeals court on Friday threw out a lawsuit brought by Democratic lawmakers that accused Donald Trump of violating anti-corruption provisions in the U.S. Constitution with his business dealings, capping a week of political victories for the Republican president.
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Trump Fires Impeachment Witnesses Gordon Sondland and Alexander Vindman in Post-Acquittal Purge
Source: The New York Times
February 7, 2020
President Donald Trump on Friday fired a U.S. ambassador and a White House national security aide, both of whom testified in the House impeachment inquiry, as the newly emboldened president took retribution on officials he believed wronged him during the impeachment process. The Ponder: Vindman leaked the information to the whistleblower. He deserved to be fired. You do NOT repeat private phone calls between the President and a foreign leader. This is BAD for National Security. He deserved to lose his job.
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White House asks scientists to investigate origins of coronavirus
Source: ABC News
February 6, 2020
The White House on Thursday asked U.S. scientists and medical researchers to investigate the scientific origins of the novel coronavirus, as misinformation about the outbreak spreads online.
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Impeachment Acquittal, Medicaid, Labor Unions, VA Accountability, Veterans

Today's News for February 7, 2020

CONGRESSMAN GONZALEZ ON THE CLOSURE OF IMPEACHMENT TRIAL OF PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP BY THE U.S. SENATE
Source: U.S. Representative Vincente Gonzalez (D-TX, 15th)
February 5, 2020
The Senate’s decision to disallow new witnesses and evidence signals a deterioration of our moral and ethical values. The consequences of today’s vote will have a lasting impact on the foundations of our democracy and Constitution.The Ponder: It was not the Senate's job to investigate and search for evidence. The House should have presented ALL the evidence from their investigation, not expected the Senate to finish THEIR job. It was the Senate's job to decide if the evidence was sufficient enough for an impeachment. Clearly, the answer was NO.
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Senator Gillibrand Statement on Vote to Convict President Trump
Source: Senator Kirsten E.Gillibrand (D-NY)
February 5, 2020
“History will remember those who stood up for our country and the rule of law, as well as those who were complicit in the degradation of our democracy. ”The Ponder: Indeed, they will.
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Gianforte Statement on Senate Acquitting President Trump of Partisan Articles of Impeachment
Source: U.S. Representative Greg Gianforte (R-Montana at Large)
February 5, 2020
“The Senate’s acquittal of President Trump closes the door on Nancy Pelosi’s hyper-partisan impeachment sham. Working to overturn the results of the 2016 election, Nancy Pelosi, Adam Schiff, and House Democrats pushed their partisan impeachment through the House and failed to make their flimsy case in the Senate. Now that this impeachment charade is behind us, let’s get back to work.”
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Gardner Statement on Conclusion of Impeachment Trial
Source: Senator Cory Gardner (R-CO)
February 5, 2020
House managers repeatedly stated that they had established “overwhelming evidence” and an “air tight” case to remove the President. Yet they also repeatedly claimed they needed additional investigation and testimony. A case cannot be “overwhelming” and “air tight” and yet incomplete. That contradiction is not mere semantics. In their partisan race to impeach, the House failed to do the fundamental work required to prove its case.
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Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García Condemns Senate Acquittal
Source: U.S. Representative Jesus Garcia (D-IL, 4th)
February 5, 2020
Senate Republicans can hide from witnesses. They can protect the President at all costs. But they cannot hide from history. Donald Trump violated the rule of law and trampled the Constitution.
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Gallagher Statement on Senate Acquittal of President Trump
Source: U.S. Representative Mike Gallagher (R-WI, 8th)
February 5, 2020
Throughout this trial, the House Impeachment Managers made two contradictory arguments that, taken together, proved fatal to their case. On the one hand, they claimed to have overwhelming evidence of an impeachable offense. Yet on the other hand, they simultaneously claimed they needed more witnesses in order to make their case. Both these claims cannot be true.
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Rep. Garamendi Takes Action to Protect Americans’ Health Care, Votes to Pass Disapproval Resolution Against President Trump’s Attack on Medicaid
Source: U.S. Representative John Garamendi (D-CA, 3rd)
February 6, 2020
Rep. Garamendi voted in favor of H. Res. 826, a resolution expressing disapproval of the Trump Administration's harmful actions toward Medicaid. Last week, the Trump Administration unveiled its illegal Medicaid block grant plan, inviting states to cap and slash Medicaid. The plan would essentially allow states to receive a waiver to block grant their Medicaid programs for certain low-income Medicaid recipients.
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REP. SYLVIA GARCIA VOTES TO PROTECT A WORKER'S RIGHT TO JOIN A LABOR UNION
Source: U.S. Representative Sylvia Garcia (D-TX, 29th)
February 6, 2020
“I am a proud to have voted in favor of the PRO Act because for far too long American corporations have found ways to get around labor laws at the expense of working people,” said Congresswoman Garcia. “When workers are able unionize and stand up for their rights, they secure fairer wages, benefits, and legal protections. Unions fight for the dignity and respect of working people and that is why the Senate must now act on this bill that would ensure that workers are free to organize unions without employer interference,” concluded Congresswoman Garcia.
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PRO Act Attacks Workers’ Rights
Source: Generation Opportunity
February 6, 2020
“Workers deserve the right to choose whether to join a union and make the best decision for themselves and their families. The PRO Act violates that right and undermines the will of citizens in the 27 states that have enacted Right-to-Work laws. But the PRO Act goes further by forcing employers to give employees’ private information to unions against their consent and restricting the ability of individuals to run their small businesses. This bill would erode the constitutional rights of workers.”
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Rep. Gallego Introduces Bipartisan VA Accountability Bill
Source: U.S. Representative Ruben Gallego (D-AZ, 7th)
February 6, 2020
The bill was introduced in response to a Government Accountability Office report which found that the VA was failing to disclose wait time, patient safety, and quality of care information in an accessible and usable manner.
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Congressman Matt Gaetz Introduces “Ainsworth Act” to Secure Full Pension Benefits for Centenarian Military Veterans
Source: U.S. Representative Matt Gaetz (R-FL, 1st)
February 6, 2020
U.S. Congressman Matt Gaetz (FL-01) today introduced legislation to allow centenarian military veterans to qualify for full pension benefits from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs regardless of their net worth. The “Joseph Ainsworth Act” would change the Net Worth Limitation in Section 1522 of Title 38 by creating an age exemption for veterans older than 99 years old.The Ponder does not support this. We clearly have veterans that are over 100 years old. ALL veterans, especially our AGED veterans, deserve our respect!
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Some Responses to the State of the Union

Today's News for February 5, 2020

Fortenberry Statement on 2020 State of the Union Address
Source: U.S. Representative Jeff Fortenberry (R-NE, 1st)
February 4, 2020
“Tonight, the President delivered a very American, meat-and-potatoes speech, with a very important emphasis on national security, keeping you safe, and getting healthcare right. He had a particular initiative that is dear my heart and those of many Nebraskans called The Trillion Trees. I think it's very important for Republicans to embrace this space of environmental security,” Fortenberry added.
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Foster Statement on State of the Union Address
Source: U.S. Representative Bill Foster (D-IL, 11th)
February 4, 2020
As expected, President Trump continues to try and take credit for the Obama economic recovery. The fact is that both job growth and economic growth are slower under President Trump than under President Obama. Under Obama, the stock market tripled, and unemployment was cut in half – President Trump hasn’t come close to matching that record.
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The Great American Comeback
Source: U.S. Representative Bill Flores (R-TX, 17th)
February 4, 2020
Even though America is improving markedly in every important aspect, I agree with President Trump that there is still work to be done. While House Democrats have wasted months pursuing their sham impeachment, the President has begun to lay the groundwork for solving the important challenges that still remain. This year, Congressional Democrats need to stop fighting the Administration and start working with the President to address the issues that affect everyday Americans — border security, immigration reform, health care reform, prescription drug prices, defense against pandemic risks, and infrastructure. Like the President, I am optimistic that we can solve these problems through bipartisanship not personal destruction. America’s best days are ahead, and Americans are increasingly optimistic— Congress would be wise to not mess it up.”
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Foxx Responds to State of the Union Address
Source: U.S. Representative Virginia Foxx (R-NC, 5th)
February 4, 2020
Under the Trump Administration, America’s economy continues to experience unprecedented levels of growth, the free market continues to flourish, and hardworking Americans are no longer subject to burdensome regulations enacted by the previous administration. It’s clear that President Trump remains committed to putting the American people first.
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REP. FRANKEL REACTS TO PRESIDENT TRUMP’S STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS
Source: U.S. Representative Lois Frankel (D-FL, 22nd)
February 4, 2020
The American people deserve more than a speech filled with untruths. The President said he will defend people with pre-existing conditions, but he is in federal court trying to overturn the Affordable Care Act. He made promises to lower drug costs, but he opposes House legislation that allows for drug price negotiation.
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Impeachment, Superbowl, Children, Stalking, Firearms, Infrastructure, School Choice, Human Trafficking, Insurance, Child Hunger, Heritage, Immigrants

Today's News for February 4, 2020

Fischer Voices Opposition to Impeachment Articles
Source: Senator Deb Fischer (R - NE)
February 4, 2020
U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) announced on the Senate floor that she will vote to acquit President Trump and against both articles of impeachment. She also called on the Senate to return to normal legislative business and work to advance policies that benefit Nebraskans and all Americans.
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Dr. James Dobson Asks Why Fox Sports Says “Yes” to Drag Queens and “No” to Abortion Survivors
Source: Family Talk
February 4, 2020
It amazes me that Fox would choose to transform the Super Bowl from a family-friendly event into an opportunity to promote a gender ideology that goes against the most basic biological realities, as well as the sincerely held religious beliefs of millions of Americans. To say I'm disappointed would be a huge understatement.
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House hearings tackle regulatory threats to children and families
Source: First Focus
February 3, 2020
A broad coalition of nonprofit and faith-based groups from across the nation that aid and represent children hailed oversight hearings to be held in the House of Representatives this week regarding Trump Administration regulatory efforts they say would harm children.
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Fitzpatrick’s bipartisan, bicameral resolution raises awareness of stalking
Source: U.S. Representative Brian Fitzpatrick, (R PA, 8th)
February 1, 2020
“Congress must continue to raise awareness about the dangers of stalking,” Rep. Fitzpatrick said. “Too many Americans have become victims of stalking, and the crimes that come after.”
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FPC, FPF Secure Preliminary Injunction Against Pennsylvania State Police ‘Partially Manufactured Receivers’ Policy Following Attorney General Josh Shapiro’s December 2019 “Legal Opinion”, Mandate
Source: Firearms Policy Coalition
January 31, 2020
“Under the PSP’s policy, good, law-abiding people and businesses were threatened with numerous criminal and civil penalties for things that not even the State Police could define. Today, the Commonwealth Court found that the PSP’s policy violated the constitutional rights of our clients and others,” commented Prince about the ruling. “We are gratified by the Commonwealth Court’s appropriate and sound decision enjoining the Pennsylvania State Police from enforcing its new policy regarding what it refers to as ‘partially manufactured frames and receivers.’”
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Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher Outlines Priorities for New Infrastructure Legislation
Source: U.S. Representative Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX, 7th)
January 31, 2020
Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher, a member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, outlined her priorities to include in upcoming infrastructure legislation. This followed Wednesday’s announcement by members of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Energy and Commerce Committee, and Ways and Means Committee unveiled a “Moving Forward” framework for a five-year plan to address our country’s most urgent infrastructure needs. Congresswoman Fletcher emphasized the need to invest in the nation’s water systems, flood protection and mitigation projects, and transit systems – all critical needs for the Houston region and Texas’ Seventh Congressional District.
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U.S. Supreme Court School Choice Case Has Major Implications for Religious Liberty
Source: First Liberty Institute
January 31, 2020
Last week, the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral argument in Espinoza v. Montana, an important school-choice case that could have nationwide implications for religious liberty
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PRESIDENT TRUMP ISSUES EXECUTIVE ORDER TO COMBAT HUMAN TRAFFICKING
Source: Faith and Freedom Coalition
January 31, 2020
President Trump today announced that the White House would expand the Domestic Policy Council to include a post dedicated to combatting human trafficking. Faith & Freedom Coalition, a strong advocate in the fight against human trafficking, commends President Trump for this step and applauds his continued commitment to ending this crime in the United States.
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Feinstein on Vote to Subpoena Witnesses in Impeachment Trial
Source: Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA)
January 31, 2020
Jurors in a trial should have access to all the relevant information before casting their vote. By the closest of margins, the Senate majority has removed our ability to hold a full and fair trial.
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FAH Comments on Insurer Transparency Proposed Rule
Source: Feeding America
January 30, 2020
The FAH comment letter reiterates our support for HHS’ goal of transparency for patients while opposing the disclosure of negotiated rates and highlighting the legal and operational concerns with the Administration’s proposal. The comment letter argues that the Proposed Rule exceeds the Administration’s statutory authority, and raises 1st amendment/trade secret concerns. It also risks significant market disruption and unforeseen anticompetitive effects that pose significant potential harms for consumers. The letter urges CMS to engage with industry to further develop price estimator tools that provide clear, accurate, and actionable cost-sharing information tools rather than implement an unnecessary proposal to publicly release negotiated rates.
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Feeding America Applauds Proposed USDA Rule that Will Help Tackle Summer Child Hunger
Source: Federation of American Hospitals (FAH)
January 30, 2020
“During the school year, 22 million children rely on the National School Lunch Program for healthy, nutritious meals at free or at reduced prices. When school lets out, many families struggle to make up for the loss of school meals, leaving far too many children — 5 out of every 6 kids — unsure of where they will find their next meal. Feeding America applauds a new proposed United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) rule that will help ensure fewer children are hungry during the summertime.
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Finkenauer Introduces Bill to Protect Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area
Source: U.S. Representative Abby Finkenauer (D-IO, 1st)
January 30, 2020
Congresswoman Abby Finkenauer (IA-01) announced the Protecting the Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area Act. The legislation would make sure that this area is preserved for years to come by eliminating the federal funding cap and sunset provision for the national heritage area.
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Supreme Court Decision OKs Rule Requiring Immigrant Self-Sufficiency, Less Dependency - Win for American People
Source: Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR US)
January 27, 2020
In a well-deserved blow to an activist judge in the Southern District of New York, today the Supreme Court lifted a nationwide injunction on President Trump’s common sense, long overdue 'public charge' rule, allowing it to go in effect during the course of litigation. This is a massive victory for the Trump administration, the American people, and most importantly, preserves the public interest component of an immigration system constantly under attack by special interest judges. The rule will correct expensive and politically-driven loopholes, and uphold the clearly expressed intent of Congress that immigrants to the United States be self-reliant. That means putting back in place screening criteria that identifies and selects prospective immigrants who will be less likely to depend on government programs and become public charges. The interest of the American people is best served when immigrants selected for admission into the United States can demonstrate they are capable of providing for themselves and their dependents. While lower court litigation continues, the rule takes effect immediately. Given that the arguments against public charge are meritless, it is likely this rule change is permanent.
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Sexual Assault, Michigan, Immigration, PG&E, Freedom of Speech, Coronavirus

Today's News for February 1, 2020

As Reports of Sexual Assault Spike at Military Academies, Ernst Leads Calls for Answers
Source: Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
January 31, 2020
Following an alarming spike of reports of sexual assault at U.S. military academies, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA), the first female combat veteran elected to the Senate, is leading a bipartisan group of senators in calling for answers from the Department of Defense (DOD). An annual report from the DOD detailed a 32 percent increase in sexual assault reports at the academies during the 2018-19 school year as compared to the year before.
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EPI Policy Center applauds Michigan Governor for moving to restore overtime pay for Michigan’s workers
Source: Economic Policy Institute
January 30, 2020
In 2016, the Obama administration published a federal rule that would have increased the overtime threshold to roughly $51,000 in 2020—a modest figure that was well within historic norms. However, the Trump administration abandoned this rule and published a much weaker version that sets the salary threshold at $35,568. In doing this, they cost more than eight million workers overtime protections—totaling $1.2 billion in lost wages. The United Way’s ALICE report on financially struggling households shows that Michigan families need about $61,000 a year to afford the basics. A strong rule would raise the salary threshold for workers who earn up to $61,000 and would also be indexed to inflation to keep pace with overall wage growth.
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Congresswoman Veronica Escobar Statement on Expansion of the Dangerous “Remain in Mexico” Policy to Brazilian Asylum Seekers
Source: Veronica Escobar (D-TX, 16th)
January 30, 2020
“Today, one year after the Trump administration announced the implementation of the dangerous and unlawful Remain in Mexico policy, DHS began depriving Brazilian asylum seekers due process and endangering their lives by sending them to Mexico, a country proved ill-equipped to safeguard the wellbeing of migrants.
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Eshoo Demands Accountability from PG&E at Congressional Hearing
Source: U.S. Representative Anna G. Eshoo (D-CA, 18th)
January 29, 2020
“I don’t presuppose that everyone in Washington D.C. knows who PG&E is or what they’ve done. Now, Californians know it, I certainly know it, and my constituents have lived it,” Rep. Eshoo said to PG&E CEO Bill Johnson. “In your testimony on page three you indicate it will take 12 to 14 years—12 to 14 years—to harden and strengthen the grid. That time frame implies that you’ve deferred a lot of the maintenance over the last 10 years. So, my first question is: why did the deferred maintenance happen and why was this allowed to happen?”
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Victory! Lawsuit Challenging FOSTA Reinstated by Court
Source: Electronic Frontier Foundation
January 24, 2020
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia ruled that two plaintiffs in the lawsuit—brought by Woodhull Freedom Foundation, Human Rights Watch, Alex Andrews, the Internet Archive, and Eric Koszyk to block enforcement of the Allow States and Victims to Fight Online Sex Trafficking Act (FOSTA)—had “standing” to pursue their constitutional challenge to the statute. The lawsuit argues that the act expansively criminalizes online speech related to sex work and removes important protections for online intermediaries in violation of their First Amendment rights. The plaintiffs are represented by EFF, Davis, Wright Tremaine LLP, Walters Law Group, and Daphne Keller.
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Emergency Nurses Association Monitoring Novel Coronavirus Developments
Source: Emergency Nurses Association
January 24, 2020
The two confirmed U.S. cases follow an outbreak in China that has prompted several U.S. airports to implement public health entry screenings. As new information develops, ENA President Mike Hastings, MSN, RN, CEN, called on emergency nurses to follow their current policies and best practices when screening patients for infectious diseases, and to revisit the use of personal protective equipment to limit exposure should a patient show symptoms of novel coronavirus.
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